The Minister of Livestock Development, Idi Mukhtar Maiha, has announced a major initiative to boost Nigeria’s livestock sector through commercial pasture production as a business model.
Speaking over the weekend in Chikun Local Government Area of Kaduna State, Maiha highlighted the sector’s vast potential and the government’s commitment to developing it.
“Countries around the world have adopted commercial pasture production as a business model, opening doors for new players in the livestock industry,” he said, addressing community leaders and herders.
With over 20 million cows, 80 million goats, and nearly 50 million sheep, along with other livestock, Nigeria stands positioned to tap into significant opportunities in the field.
Maiha emphasized that peaceful coexistence is essential to foster livestock development.
“Development is impossible without peace,” he noted, adding that President Tinubu’s administration is fully dedicated to revitalizing the livestock sector.
This commitment is demonstrated by the creation of the Ministry of Livestock Development, a pioneering move in Nigeria’s history.
On addressing Nigeria’s dairy production challenges, Maiha noted, “The average Nigerian cow currently produces just one litre of milk daily. We are hopeful that, through genetic improvements, we can raise this to the global average of 6.6 litres per cow.”
He also outlined plans to establish grazing reserves with modern husbandry facilities, aiming to attract herders and improve livestock management.
The ministry is focused on enhancing legislative frameworks to attract investments in dairy and beef production, with a goal to drive growth and create jobs for young Nigerians. “We are fully committed to promoting commercial pasture production,” Maiha affirmed.
Community leader Aldon Alhaji Suleiman praised President Tinubu’s decision to establish the ministry, expressing confidence that it would address the key challenges faced by herders nationwide.
He urged pastoralists to support the ministry’s mission for a more productive livestock sector.